S.S. Manoj, State president, Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi and national secretary, Confederation of All India Traders, has stated that traders will not shift to the new temporary market complex unless the waste that has accumulated at the Connemara Market in Palayam is cleared.

In a statement, he said the organisation has decided to ignore the notice issued by Thiruvananthapuram Corporation to shift all traders to the new building complex by March 31.

The traders are not opposed to the renovation of Palayam market, but they cannot conduct business in the newly constructed buildings that lack ventilation, and are located near the massive waste tanks that store fish, meat and vegetable wastes generated from within the market and nine wards, he pointed out.

Mr. Manoj also raised concerns about the Corporation’s steps for waste disposal. He urged the local body to clarify on the measures being adopted by the Haritha Karma Sena for segregating waste in the area.